Brand Watch: Freedom of Animals Bags

Morgan Bogle has an ideal fashion CV to launch a new brand: highlights include time spent in editorial and at Central Saint Martins, a degree from The Savannah College of Art and Design and a stint sketching for Marc Jacobs. The name of her accessories line, Freedom of Animals, says it all. Each bag is made of sustainable materials like recycled water bottles and utilizes vegetable-based dyes, plus a portion of all sales go towards wildlife conservation. Read on for Morgan's take on keeping vegetarian fashion chic.

Harper's Bazaar: Why was it important to you to not use any animal products?

Morgan Bogle: I was raised a vegan so i've always been aware of the treatment of animals for food consumption, but it wasn't until the past decade that I learned of the inhumane processes animals endure for our fashion. My boyfriend and I have been volunteering with animals for the past six years, from sanctuaries in Africa to rescuing pitbulls in NYC, to try and give back. But we felt it wasn't enough, so I began sourcing ethical materials, and about a year ago we founded Freedom of Animals to provide consumers with a sustainable, ethical and cruelty-free accessories line.

HB: How would you describe the aesthetic of the line?

MB: Freedom of Animals is designed for simplicity and function, to complement a range of outfits, to carry our tech devices wherever we go, and to not take up a lot of room. A simple color palette has always been important to me and color blocking gives it versatility. As a stylist, it has always been important for me to be able to carry a lot around but not be burdened by a bulky bag.

HB: Many eco-animal free brands have an earthy, crunchy feel — are you seeking to change that rep?

MB: I've always had a problem finding ethical fashion pieces because I am not drawn to the earthy, crunchy look. I am drawn to simple and understated silhouettes that complement my varying style. We can have both — style and sustainability — and we hope to offer just that. This void in fashionable, ethical accessories is part of what drove me to create a more stylish product line.

HB: Who would you love to see wear the bags?

MB: We hope our bags (and accessories) will be worn by people of all demographics and walks of life. People who want to support sustainability can be assured we will always provide that and those who don't seek sustainable fashion can wear our products for any occasion and be comfortable and stylish. We are an American made brand as well, so for those who love to support a local economy, we hope to appeal to them as well. A few celebrities that we would love to see wearing Freedom of Animals would include Anne Hathaway, Jessica Alba and Jessica Chastain!